HSP (i) vs HSP (ii): which Japanese visa is right for you?
Two tiers of Highly Skilled Professional: HSP(i) is the initial points-based status, while HSP(ii) is the upgraded status with near-permanent privileges after holding HSP(i).
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Highly Skilled Professional (i) (HSP (i)) | Highly Skilled Professional (ii) (HSP (ii)) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Points-based | Points-based |
| Who it's for | Highly qualified academics, specialists or managers scoring 70+ on the points test for accelerated benefits. | HSP (i) holders who have worked 3+ years and want a near-permanent, indefinite work status. |
| Government cost | ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free | ~¥4,000 on grant (change of status) |
| Processing time | ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility | ~2 weeks-2 months |
| Length of stay | 5 years (renewable) | Indefinite (no fixed expiry) |
| Where to apply | Certificate of Eligibility filed in Japan; visa issued at a consulate abroad | Change of status filed in Japan |
| Work rights | Broad work rights across the qualifying activity, plus some side activities | Almost unrestricted work across nearly all employment-based activities |
| Points-tested | Yes | Yes |
| Pathway to PR | Fast-track permanent residence after 3 years (1 year if scoring 80+ points). | Already near-permanent; holders typically also qualify for full permanent residence. |
Which is right for you?
Highly Skilled Professional (i) (HSP (i))
Highly qualified academics, specialists or managers scoring 70+ on the points test for accelerated benefits.
Full HSP (i) guide →Highly Skilled Professional (ii) (HSP (ii))
HSP (i) holders who have worked 3+ years and want a near-permanent, indefinite work status.
Full HSP (ii) guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, HSP (i) or HSP (ii)?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Highly Skilled Professional (i) (HSP (i)) is the lowest at ~¥4,000 on grant; Certificate of Eligibility is free. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
Which is processed faster, HSP (i) or HSP (ii)?
Indicatively Highly Skilled Professional (i) (HSP (i)) is the quickest at ~1-3 months for the Certificate of Eligibility. Actual timeframes depend on caseload and how complete your application is.
What's the main difference between HSP (i) and HSP (ii)?
Highly Skilled Professional (i) (HSP (i)) is for highly qualified academics, specialists or managers scoring 70+ on the points test for accelerated benefits. Highly Skilled Professional (ii) (HSP (ii)) is for hSP (i) holders who have worked 3+ years and want a near-permanent, indefinite work status.